State-Level
Impact
State-Level
Impact
Legislative and Regulatory Roundup
SEIA monitors state and federal regulations that affect decommissioning for solar and energy storage systems. Some states have set up a framework outlining how to remove equipment and restore land at the end of project lifetime. Other states leave decommissioning rules to local authorities. In some cases, we see a hybrid scenario where the state imposes a limited set of requirements and gives local agencies discretion to go further if they choose.
One key detail in the regulatory framework is how asset owners can assure adequate financing for decommissioning and site restoration. Some states require owners to update cost estimates as projects approach the end of life. Some specify permissible securities for financing, such as a bond, an insurance policy, or a letter of credit. Many states also identify projects included in the decommissioning framework and those that are exempt.
Legislative and Regulatory Roundup
SEIA monitors state and federal regulations that affect decommissioning for solar and energy storage systems. Some states have set up a framework outlining how to remove equipment and restore land at the end of project lifetime. Other states leave decommissioning rules to local authorities. In some cases, we see a hybrid scenario where the state imposes a limited set of requirements and gives local agencies discretion to go further if they choose.
One key detail in the regulatory framework is how asset owners can assure adequate financing for decommissioning and site restoration. Some states require owners to update cost estimates as projects approach the end of life. Some specify permissible securities for financing, such as a bond, an insurance policy, or a letter of credit. Many states also identify projects included in the decommissioning framework and those that are exempt.
Decommissioning in Action Now
Updated December 2024
Waste Regulation
Some projects must comply with state rules governing waste management in addition to the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
PV Removal
Many states specify the aboveground equipment, underground components and other infrastructure to be removed at the end of project lifetime.
Decommissioning Bonding
Decommissioning Studies
States that mandate financial assurance for decommissioning often also require projects to estimate decommissioning costs and update estimates over time.
2024 – Report on the Decommissioning and Disposal of Solar Panels and Wind Power Equipment
Louisiana
When Green Energy Turns Brown: An Examination of the Insufficiencies in Louisiana
Michigan
Minnesota
Reuse and recycling of solar installations at end of life
Montana
Powering Down Decommissioning Energy Generation Facilities in Montana
North Carolina
Utility-Scale Solar Project Decommissioning Report
North Dakota
Texas
Environmental Impacts of Decommissioned Solar, Wind, and Electricity Storage Systems
Virginia
Proposed Bills and Legislation
Decommissioning in Action Now
Updated December 2024
Waste Regulation
Some projects must comply with state rules governing waste management in addition to the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
PV Removal
Many states specify the aboveground equipment, underground components and other infrastructure to be removed at the end of project lifetime.
Decommissioning Bonding
Decommissioning Studies
States that mandate financial assurance for decommissioning often also require projects to estimate decommissioning costs and update estimates over time.
2024 – Report on the Decommissioning and Disposal of Solar Panels and Wind Power Equipment
Louisiana
When Green Energy Turns Brown: An Examination of the Insufficiencies in Louisiana
Michigan
Minnesota
Reuse and recycling of solar installations at end of life
Montana
Powering Down Decommissioning Energy Generation Facilities in Montana
North Carolina
Utility-Scale Solar Project Decommissioning Report
North Dakota
Texas
Environmental Impacts of Decommissioned Solar, Wind, and Electricity Storage Systems
Virginia